Caprylic Acid

Benefits
AntifungalAnti Dandruff

What is Caprylic Acid?

Caprylic acid, also known as octanoic acid, is a naturally occurring saturated medium-chain fatty acid with eight carbon atoms. It is commonly derived from plant sources like coconut oil and palm kernel oil through fractionation processes. In cosmetics, it appears in cleansers, shampoos, body washes, and emulsions. As a multifunctional ingredient, it acts as a surfactant by reducing surface tension to lift dirt and oils, an emulsifier stabilizing oil-water mixtures for smooth textures, and a fragrance component masking odors. Its antimicrobial nature targets fungi, supporting scalp and skin hygiene formulas. Typically used at low levels, it contributes to mild, effective cleansing without stripping natural moisture, making it suitable for daily routines in personal care items.

Comedogenic Rating 1/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 1 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Surfactant
Lowers surface tension to enable cleansing, emulsifying, and foaming; central to shampoos, body washes, and many emulsions and micellar systems.
Cleansing agent
Removes dirt, oil, and impurities by lowering surface tension and forming micelles, enabling soils to be lifted and rinsed away from skin, hair, or teeth.
Emulsifying agent
Enables stable mixing of oil and water phases by forming an interfacial film, helping create lotions, creams, and cleansers with consistent texture.
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Supports antifungal action to maintain scalp and skin balance.

Assists in dandruff management through microbial control.

Enhances cleansing and emulsification for better product performance.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals dealing with scalp flakiness or dandruff.
Those with rare allergies to medium-chain fatty acids.
People seeking gentle, multifunctional cleansers.
People experiencing irritation from coconut-derived ingredients.
Users preferring natural-derived surfactants in hair and skin products.
Individuals with highly reactive skin to acidic compounds.

Safety Notes

  • Rated low hazard by EWG with scores of 1.
  • Deemed safe for cosmetic use by regulatory reviews.

Frequently Asked Questions about Caprylic Acid

What is caprylic acid derived from?

Primarily from coconut oil and palm kernel oil.

Is caprylic acid safe for sensitive skin?

Generally low irritation potential in cosmetic concentrations.

What products commonly contain it?

Cleansers, shampoos, and emulsified lotions.